She came into our lives more than ten years ago as a little ball of fluff. She left our lives on Easter Day as a regal and proud old lady. I’m talking about Kai, our beautiful and loyal German Shepherd.

We are, of course, all completely heartbroken. She was the only dog that we had from a puppy, and she grew up with us, turning from a cheeky little rascal, who nibbled our feet and hid our socks, to the most loyal and gentle dog you could wish for. German Shepherds often have a bad reputation, but Kai was about as aggressive as a cheese sandwich. When she was a puppy, she would nibble at our feet and terrorise my brother in the mornings by stealing his socks and running away, but she would never hurt anyone.

The kids loved her – clambering over her, cuddling her and even holding her lead on walks. She was so protective over everyone she was with, never losing her shepherding instinct.

Over the past year, she very suddenly seemed to age. Her fur grew greyer, her tail thinner. Her walks were shorter and she needed a push up to climb in and out of the car. We knew the end was nearing but absolutely nothing can prepare you for the heartbreak of when it finally comes. Unlike when we had to say our goodbyes to Freddie, a little over a year ago, I wasn’t able to be there with Kai when she went to sleep but I know it was one of the hardest decisions my mum and dad had to make. Kai was their fur baby, their princess, but when she became so poorly that she could barely walk, they knew that the kindest thing would be to end her suffering and let her go with the dignity that she deserved.

I might not have been there, but I know when that beautiful old girl closed her eyes for the last time on Sunday morning, she did it knowing she was one of the most loved dogs in the world. She had everything a dog could wish for: a full tummy, a warm home, plenty of walks and a family who worshipped the ground her giant paws walked on. In return, she gave us the things that only a dog can give you – unconditional love and loyalty.

Kai, everyone that ever met you fell in love with you. Sleep tight beautiful xxx

The Rainbow Bridge

Just this side of heaven is a place called Rainbow Bridge.

When an animal dies that has been especially close to someone here, that pet goes to Rainbow Bridge.
There are meadows and hills for all of our special friends so they can run and play together.
There is plenty of food, water and sunshine, and our friends are warm and comfortable.

All the animals who had been ill and old are restored to health and vigor; those who were hurt or maimed are made whole and strong again, just as we remember them in our dreams of days and times gone by.
The animals are happy and content, except for one small thing; they each miss someone very special to them, who had to be left behind.

They all run and play together, but the day comes when one suddenly stops and looks into the distance. His bright eyes are intent; His eager body quivers. Suddenly he begins to run from the group, flying over the green grass, his legs carrying him faster and faster.

You have been spotted, and when you and your special friend finally meet, you cling together in joyous reunion, never to be parted again. The happy kisses rain upon your face; your hands again caress the beloved head, and you look once more into the trusting eyes of your pet, so long gone from your life but never absent from your heart.

Then you cross Rainbow Bridge together….

(Author unknown)